A New Generation of Curlers Take to the Ice in Southern California
Since its humble beginning in Scotland back in 1511, the sport of curling has become an increasingly popular pastime amongst athletes and novices alike.
After briefly disappearing from Los Angeles in the 90s, curling re-emerged in the 2000s in the first-of-its-kind Southern California Curling Center. Co-founder Matt Gamboa describes the new location as a “community” that is inspiring a new generation of curlers in Southern California.
Out of the fifteen different Olympic winter sports, curling is definitely the most fascinating to me, and after trying it out for myself, I have to admit, it requires much more athleticism than first impressions would have you believe! With the calculated precision, undeniable core strength, and cardiovascular fitness needed to succeed, there’s no doubt that it takes a lifetime to master the sport.
But don’t be put off! Curling is most certainly a sport for everyone, athletically gifted or not. The strong emphasis on teamwork and the community-like nature of the game makes curling perfect for those simply wanting to meet new people in a fun, interactive way with individuals from all backgrounds coming together on and off the ice.
Are you interested in giving curling a go? Visit curling.la, where you will find information on how to get started and much more!
Game Day: Battle of the Bars
The California Live team and I were well and truly feeling the football fever this game day, and we decided to bring you along for the journey!
While Danielle Nottingham and Paul Costabile kicked things off at Big Wang’s in North Hollywood with beer, wings, and football trivia, I had the pleasure of visiting another SoCal hotspot, Gallagher’s Irish Pub and Grill Long Beach, where the celebrations were in full swing!
Opened in 2006 by Irish owner Ciara Gallagher, Gallagher’s is known for its delicious “Gourmet Irish” food, traditional drink, great live Irish music, trivia night, and of course, Niner Empire game day celebrations!
Among the excited Niner faithfuls were some members of the SoCal Niner Empire Club, a club filled with only the most trusted and dedicated members that have been dedicating their time to providing community service in the Long Beach area since 2007. From them, I learned all about the work that goes into making game day so special in Gallagher’s, including the famous touchdown shot tradition, which, I have to say, looks like a lot of fun!
Whether you are a Rams fan, a Niners faithful, or somewhere in the middle, there’s always a place in California where you can cheer your team on!
